Lincoln Cent (Wheat Reverse)

Brief Description

The obverse features a profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln, facing right, with the word "LIBERTY" to his left and the year "1955" to his right. "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed above his head. The reverse (not visible in the image but typical for this era) would feature two stalks of wheat flanking the words "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above.

Historical Significance

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909, marked the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth and was the first regular-issue American coin to feature a real person rather than an allegorical figure. The 'Wheat Cent' design (with wheat stalks on the reverse) was struck from 1909 to 1958, after which it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design. The 1955 production is notably famous for the '1955 Double Die Obverse' error, which is highly sought after by collectors. However, without a clear view of the coin's specific characteristics, it cannot be confirmed if this particular coin is the error variety.

Estimated Value

For a standard 1955 Lincoln Cent in average circulated condition, the estimated value is typically under $0.50. If it were a 1955 Double Die Obverse error, the value could range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on its condition and grading. Given the image, it appears to be a standard circulated coin.

Care Instructions

To preserve the coin's condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your skin. Store it in a dry, stable environment, preferably in an archival-safe holder such as an inert plastic flip, a Mylar mount, or a non-PVC coin slab. Avoid cleaning the coin, as cleaning can permanently damage its surface and significantly reduce its numismatic value.

Created At: 2025-10-29T21:12:30.588238